Tristan Gemmill to play Tracy Barlow’s ex-husband Robert in Coronation Street

Tristan Gemmill CorrieTristan Gemmill has joined the cast of Coronation Street.

The actor has landed a full-time role with the Granada production as Robert Preston, the one-time hubby of Tracy Barlow (Kate Ford).

“I’m excited to be joining such an iconic show. Coronation Street is a great British institution and it will be a huge challenge to meet the expectations of its devoted audience. But it is a challenge I am really looking forward to.” – Tristan Gemmill

Tracy is surprised when Robert arrives at her mum Deirdre’s funeral. Coming to terms with the loss of her mum, and newly single after her affair with Tony Stewart, it isn’t long before Tracy is drawn to Robert.

However, the chef omits to tell his ex-wife one detail about his life since their split – he is still married to his second wife who, as the storyline progresses, makes an appearance on the cobbles to claim her man. Robert lands a job at the Bistro, but will he win Tracy round after she finds out the truth about his wife?

“Tristan is a fantastic and classy actor who will bring a real gravitas to the role of Robert Preston. We’re all delighted to have him on board and I can’t wait to see him striding down those famous cobbles.” – Show boss, Stuart Blackburn

Tracy married Robert in 1996, she had an affair in 2002 and eventually divorced him, much to Deirdre’s dismay. Tristan is currently enlisted to appear in the saga for a year with his first scenes being screened in July. He previously played Consultant Adam Trueman in Casualty for five years – while his other credits include London’s Burning, Death in Paradise, Atlantis and stage production The Bodyguard.

The role of Robert was previously played by Julian Kay.

Coronation Street airs Monday/Wednesday/Friday on ITV/STV/UTV